Smile, decorate your walking stick-- let them talk about that-- choose with whom you spend your time-- good luck.

I agree with a lot that others have said but I would add this... if it helps. People are nosey & curious, usually because they do not have enough going on in their own lives, they are to be pitied because despite all that you have to put up with, you at least have one.
I don't try to tell others what is wrong with me, they do not have the knowledge to understand & that is what I say to anyone who gets too pushy "Its complicated you wouldn't understand".
As far as the religious aspect goes try "well you know what the bible says"...."God helps those who help themselves, but it is kind of you to be concerned". What you are aiming for ... is damming with faint praise. A really really polite way of telling folk to mind their own business without actually saying it. After a while I would think they will let it go. I always think it is such a shame instead of helping they make it worse.
I hope you are having a good day feel free to have a moan any time it gets too much :)

It is really hard to deal with ignorance. See if you can come up with a canned statement that will shut them up. How insensitive. Your are much too young to have to be in pain, but the fact that you are is something that those around you have to accept. I hope your family and friends are a good support group. Others don't really matter. I used to have to bring a reclining type lawn chair everywhere I went. Every time I go a comment, I would say that "I have perfected the art of relaxation". There wasn't much they could say to that.

I'm 36 but look younger & I hav back issues too. People are going to look, stare & make comments & it SUCKS!! I wear a back brace & people look at me like I'm a freak. I often hav days when I can't deal with the bullshit so I stay home. However, on good days I use my humor & sarcasm to deal with ignorant people & their jackass kids. I look people or kids right in the eye & say "Hello". Usually this is all it takes to embarrass them into turning away. And for the ones who love to give out advice I let them hav their say & then I say "Thanks SO much for that, I hope u feel better now." It may sound bitchy but I've been through so much I don't care anymore.

Hon you don't owe anyone and explanation. When you walk in a room don't look around; it will just make you feel self-conscious. Just offer simple short answers. People try to help because you are young and they want to help, but they are often wrong but won't admit it. Blessings to you